Community concern

Community's view

What is the Community’s view of animal research?
As a society, “animal welfare” is a difficult issue for us to deal with, primarily because of the diversity of views which is found in the community. Attitudes range from those who believe we should be able to do what we want to animals to those who believe animals should be treated in the same way as human beings. Although concern for the welfare of animals is widely held, there are many views as to the implications of this goal when we have to decide whether or not we can subject an animal to certain kinds of treatment. This diversity is most evident when we consider animal experimentation. Nevertheless, the wider community are key stakeholders whose views need to be taken into account in our decision as to whether or not a particular study should proceed. Reports of government inquiries and surveys are sources of information about the views of the community on this subject.
In Australia, in the mid 1980’s, the Senate established a Select Committee on Animal Welfare for which ‘animal experimentation’ was one of the major terms of reference. Its report on this subject, published in 1989, represented a comprehensive investigation involving examination of many hundreds of written submissions and hours of public hearings during which over one hundred witnesses were called. A diverse range of views was represented. The Senate committee concluded that: “There is no doubt that the majority of the population supports biomedical research involving the use of animals, provided that effective controls are operating to keep the number of the animals and the level of pain and distress to a minimum.” More recent data on attitudes in the Australian community are not available. A 1999 survey in the UK, published in New Scientist (May 22) showed that people were prepared to carefully weigh the pros and cons of an experiment and that the level of suffering and the species involved were determining factors. These reports highlight the significance of the 3R’s as strategies to minimise the risk to animals - Refinement of techniques is essential to ensure minimum impact on animals which have to be involved.
There are some circumstances where, through legislation, the community has put special restrictions in place. The use of animals to screen cosmetics has been banned in a number of Australian states and, in New South Wales, Ministerial approval is required to conduct toxicity testing when it involves the deliberate death of animals. The Community, also has expressed concerns about the use of certain species - dogs and primates being of particular concern. In contrast, in our commitment to protect the environment from hazardous chemicals and degradation and to sustain and protect biodiversity, the Community is seeking outcomes which will require more research using animals. Governments have identified that research in these areas is needed and is a key strategy in achieving our goals.